The Pentecostal Church of the Apostolic Faith International (PCAFI) Liberia Diocese celebrated a historic milestone at its Annual Holy Convocation held at Bethlehem Temple, Tinway Town, Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, by adopting a new church constitution after 66 years of existence.
The process began in January 2024 when the Diocesan Bishop, Bishop Francis T. Birr, assigned 12 of his top leaders to initiate reforms within the Liberia Diocese. Their first task was to draft a constitution for the diocese. After twenty-four (24) months of dedicated work, the team finalized and presented for adoption and signing a comprehensive constitution to the diocese leadership on December 13, 2025.
The 12 commissioned leaders drafted the first-ever constitution for the Liberia Diocese. This committee was led by District Elder E. Alfred Walker, who stated that the document was created to modernize the church’s governance and operations. According to him, “The new framework transitions the church from ‘perpetual leadership’—leading until death to tenure-based leadership.” Additionally, the document outlines membership criteria, election and appointment procedures for Executive Officers, the church’s stance on same-sex marriage, and other constitutional issues.
The 12 commissioned leaders drafted the first-ever constitution for the Liberia Diocese. District Elder E. Alfred Walker and Elder John B. S. Davies, III, served as Chair and Co-Chair of this committee. After the presentation to the congregation, D/Elder Walker told them that the document was created to modernize the church’s governance and operations. According to him, “The new framework transitions the church from ‘perpetual leadership’—leading until death to tenure-based leadership.”
Currently leading the Diocese are Bishop Francis T. Birr, his two vice bishops, Bishop Allen G. White and Bishop Dr. Isaac J. Mehn, Sr.; the Secretary-General, Suffragan Bishop G. Sebastian Gaye; and numerous other national leaders and pastors.
The occasion was graced by a three-man delegation from the United States of America, consisting of Suffragan Bishop Melvyn Y. Little, Jr., Bishop James Edwell, and Dr. Maxine T. Grant. This delegation was led by Suffragan Bishop Little, who is the Director of Global Mission. As a representative of PCAFI—USA, Bishop Little joined the presiding prelate in Liberia to sign the diocese’s constitution.
One key provision of the constitution allows emeritus leaders—bishops, district elders, pastors, etc.—to receive their rightful benefits for faithful service to the diocese.
Some church leaders disclosed that the new constitution is modeled after that of PCAFI-USA. This similarity is expected to strengthen unity, improve administrative efficiency, and reinforce accountability within the Liberian Diocese.
The adoption of the constitution marks a new chapter for the PCAFI-Liberia Diocese, introducing a more structured and transparent governance system. Church leaders and members are hopeful about the reforms and believe these changes will support the church’s ongoing growth and stability.
